Knowledge and Attitude towards First Aid Measures among Female Drivers in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: With road crashes contributing significantly to national fatalities, enhancing first aid preparedness is crucial. This study focuses on female drivers in Saudi Arabia, a newly emerging group following the 2018 lifting of the driving ban for women. The influx of new drivers underscores the need for essential first aid skills. By assessing knowledge, awareness, and attitudes toward first aid, this study identifies educational gaps and proposes targeted interventions. Female drivers were chosen due to their pivotal role as new participants in the driving landscape and their potential to enhance community safety through improved first aid awareness. Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 831 female drivers across Saudi Arabia, using self-administered questionnaires distributed via social media. All participants provided informed consent prior to participation. The survey assessed participants' knowledge of first aid measures, attitudes toward first-aid training, and personal experiences with emergencies. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, applying descriptive and inferential statistics to summarise variables and explore associations between demographic factors and first aid knowledge. Results: The study identified substantial gaps in first aid knowledge and training among 831 female drivers in Saudi Arabia, despite 798 (96%) participants recognizing its importance. Only 233 (28%) had formal first aid training, and 345 (42%) knew correct CPR procedures. Key deficiencies included knowledge of bleeding control (308, 37%) and safe removal of injured individuals from vehicles (214, 26%). Confidence in providing first aid was low, with 235 (28%) participants reporting no confidence and only 44 (5%) feeling very confident. Sociodemographic factors, such as age, education, and driving experience, significantly influenced awareness and knowledge scores. Conclusion: There is an urgent need for targeted educational interventions to address key gaps in first aid knowledge among female drivers in Saudi Arabia. Integrating first aid training into the driver’s licensing process and promoting regular public health campaigns can enhance emergency preparedness and road safety. These findings emphasize the importance of policy-driven approaches to ensure that all drivers, especially female drivers, are equipped with essential first aid skills, ultimately contributing to more comprehensive driver education and improved emergency response outcomes.